Ask The Guide

(They did do this)

While a one-off RS8 prototype of the previous-generation (D4 series) A8 was created in 2013, it never went into production, as we understand there just wasn't enough demand for that sort of high-performance internal-combustion engined limousine.

Tesla's successful Model S, on the other hand, has demonstrated the viability of an electrically powered large-sedan flagship, and so with Audi going down that path with the help of Porsche with its e-tron GT series, it is unlikely that we will see anything racier than an S8.

We hope this helps.

The answer is no, but Hyundai's naming policy was very confusing during the 2010s.

The original i30 of 2007 introduced the alphanumerical naming policy and signified a different approach to vehicle engineering, with a European focus with higher-quality engineering rather than a low price to take on class leaders like on the Volkswagen Golf.

Thus 'i' something became a sort of premium nomenclature, and of course is still used to denote this on models like the i30 and Europe's i10 and i20 small cars There was also the German-engineered i40 midsized sedan and wagon until 2018.

But here's where Hyundai muddied its own waters.

In 2010 the larger, American-market Sonata was rebadged i45 for Australia and New Zealand – even though an 'x' and a '5' rather than a '0' meant crossover or SUV, as illustrated by the very popular second-generation Tucson being renamed ix35 in Australia and some other markets from 2009 to 2015 – though this naming policy was abandoned for the third-generation Tucson from 2015. While strikingly styled, there was nothing European about the i45, and it too returned to being badged Sonata from 2015.

So... i10, 120, i30, i40 and i45 for Australia, but no i35.

Thank you.

The short answer is: nobody knows.

Recent rumours suggest that a hybrid-powered piston-engined coupe with a small rotary range-extender engine might be under consideration, or even a non-rotary-powered piston-hybrid sports car bearing the 'RX-9' badge may be in the pipeline. With Mazda developing inline six-cylinder petrol engines, the latter might be more on the money.

But a low-volume expensive coupe is probably not on Mazda's priorities list, sadly.

Thank you.

If you find a good Datsun 720 ute, then go for it. Like most vehicles from the late '70s and '80s, they rust away.

Is it better than the contemporary HiLux? Probably not, judging from what Wheels magazine had to say in its August 1981 4x2 single-cab diesel comparison by esteemed road tester, Brian Woodward, featuring the HiLux against the Datsun 720, Ford Courier and Holden Rodeo:

"Datsun has radial tyres as standard but they don't do handling much good; ride is choppiest of the four. Bench seat makes best use of space but cabin is claustrophobic. Engine gives most power but is truck-like with plenty of diesel clatter. Column shift works well. Load space and access is good."

Of the HiLux: "Toyota feels most car-like, is quietest of four and has most practical gear ratios. But it doesn't set standards for suspension control. Cabin is light and airy. Engine gives HiLux best performance and economy. Dash controls are easy to use. Deck is as for others."

"None of the four is a worthwhile alternative to a car or a serious rival for the good old Aussie ute, but the Toyota comes close. It is the one we would choose..."

Wheels then went on to compare the same new 1981 HiLux against the Holden WB Kingswood 3300 ute, with the following conclusion:

"The Toyota has plenty of ground clearance, useful low gearing and fine economy – a very different picture to that of the Holden and one which gives the Japanese a clear advantage as a practical workhorse. But utes are not only workhorses – they may have to carry pigs in the back on Friday but on Saturday they are expected to be able to take the missus to the shops (this was 1981, remember, Ed.). And it's here that the Toyota falls down. It's too commercial."

That all said, we'd buy on condition. If you find a HiLux that's in better shape than the 720, we'd go for that. But as you said, the Datsun is a rarer thing, and a delightfully period piece of engineering in its own right.

We hope this contemporary perspective of the Datsun 720 and Toyota HiLux helps.

Indeed it will so get in quick.

With its mix of classic Range Rover and a Rover Group parts-bin bits, Morris Marina door handles, Austin Montego van tail-lights and Buick’s ancient alloy V8 all part of the mix, this thing is pre-BMW/post-BMC era British engineering genius.

Also, the original Disco is cool, with its lovely two-door wagon body, stepped roof with skylights and airy, inviting cabin offering minimalist, attractive design. And please don't forget the Land Rover's formidable 4x4 capabilities.

All-in-all, a '90s classic worth collecting. Land Rover doesn't make 'em like this any more.

The F60 Formula 1 is significant in that its name celebrates Ferrari's 60th year in Formula 1.

But people talk about it probably for reasons unflattering to Ferrari. In a nutshell, it was not at all a success in its 2009 F1 season, winning just one out of 17 races that year (and scoring just six podium placements during that time); in fact, the F60 F1 car is considered a massive disappointment as a result.

In contrast, its F2008 predecessor won 8 out of 18 races and finished up in 19 podium placements, and as of last season, remains the most recent Ferrari Formula 1 car to win the World Constructors' Championship.

We hope this helps.

The short answer is no, as the Mazda6 has never sold to expectations and all the action in the luxury sphere is in SUVs or crossovers.

However, with Mazda heading into the premium space and in model-sharing activities with arch-rival Toyota, a 6-style sedan based on the mooted coming, rear-drive and inline six-cylinder powered CX-5 replacement is expected, possibly to be shared with a Toyota or Lexus model. These are pure rumours right now, but a possible scenario as Mazda attempts to amortise the development and engineering costs of its next-generation architectures.

But we don't believe a sedan or wagon larger than a Mazda6 would be part of these future plans – not in the foreseeable future, anyway.

The F80 Concept will definitely not make it to production, as it was a concept based on the now-redundant F1 rule-meeting technologies of the mid-2010s.

However, a replacement for the F150 LaFerrari is highly likely, but not in the same specification, as we hear it will showcase progressive electrification technologies rather than the mid-mounted hybrid V12 layout of the F150.

No word on when or where it will appear, and Ferrari is infamous for taking its time with direct successors to ground-breaking models like the LaFerrari.

Volkswagen’s latest cars are lovely to drive but it’s true; many mechanics (and plenty of owners) are wary of the brand’s recent reputation for reliability. But if you’re buying a brand-new or nearly new example, then the factory warranty will be some peace of mind. The safest bet right now, is something Japanese or South Korean, and that includes the Hyundai you’re looking at as well as the equivalent offerings from Kia. Both these brands have enviable reputations for durability and both come with terrific factory warranties.

Volkswagen’s current high-tech turbocharged engines are very entertaining to drive as well as being frugal in all situations, but, in reality, any current model mid-sized SUV is more than capable of delivering you interstate in comfort and safety as well as offering low running costs. Bear in mind you may have to pay extra for the top-shelf model if you want all the latest safety and convenience technology.

The cars that are going up in price at a, frankly, frightening rate are cars that appeal to enthusiast drivers out there. Older Holdens and Fords and anything with a performance bent to it seem to be falling into this category. But since you don’t seem too fussed about what you buy, you can still find really good cars for under $5000. I’d start by looking at things like Toyota Camrys from the 1990s. These are good, solid, dependable cars and can be had comfortably within your budget. They’re not the most exciting cars to drive, but provided you find one that hasn’t already been worked to death, it should go for years.